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About Jersey - Activities
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| Fishing |
It's a shore thing
Jersey's diverse landscape, favourable climate and huge tidal range mean
that the island boasts a kaleidoscope of marine life.
Fish from north coast rocks and harbours, taking your pick from black bream,
mullet, ballan wrasse and conger. Or charter a boat to fish for bass, rays,
tope, turbot and brill - all in inshore waters.
A-Z OF FISH
Bass
From the Shore
If there is one species that perfectly embodies the experience of sea fishing in Jersey, it is the Bass. Its silvery flanks and graceful form can be appreciated to the full in the crystal clear inshore waters that surround the island, and provide a wonderful hunting ground for this supreme predator. Jersey is not only visited by high numbers of migratory fish each year, but also has its own resident population of indigenous stock, and these factors combine to provide some of the finest Bass fishing to be found anywhere in Europe. Vast numbers of juvenile fish seek the shelter of the inshore reef systems to feed on the abundant bait, and quickly put on weight. Mid sized fish venture out into the strong tidal runs in order to intercept sand-eel and small bait fish that struggle to cope with the power of the flow, or follow the tide into the shallows to graze on the incredible array of natural food that emerges during each tidal cycle. Fully mature fish tend to be slightly more solitary, only forming into large shoals prior to spawning, but experienced anglers who are familiar with their behaviour, and favourite feeding areas, can enjoy some excellent sport with fish that run to well over the magic ten pound mark.
Unlike many other areas, where Bass are normally caught using limited tactics, the incredible variety of the fishing grounds in Jersey, and the vast tidal ranges that ebb and flow each day, enable the angler to target island Bass in any number of ways. Whether your penchant is for bottom fishing with large baits in secluded bays and harbours during the quieter hours, or for fishing in the surf of a golden strand as the breakers disturb the food from their sandy burrows, here is the place to do it. Lure anglers who prefer a more mobile approach, are totally spoilt for choice by the variety of terrain from which to fish. There are very few places where one can actually examine the ground over which one intends to fish when the tide retreats at low water. Tidal ranges in Jersey are some of the highest in the world, with levels rising and falling up to forty feet on spring tides, and uncovering myriad reefs, gullies, and sand banks, that are the feeding haunts of the Bass, and many other species. With great care, it is possible to ‘fish the tide up’ from any number of marks around the island, and with the help of polarised glasses, actually witness at first hand, the arrival of the Bass. The visual nature of fishing in this way has to be experienced to be believed, as fish venture into inches of water, in order to be the first to the feeding grounds.
Baits placed carefully to intercept these fish as they enter these areas, or shallow diving and surface lures, will catch plenty of fish, and provide a memorable fishing experience for those who choose to fish in this way. Visiting, and local anglers, can enjoy this sport armed with only the bare minimum of tackle, that allows them to cover plenty of ground whilst searching out the fish. Light spinning rods and reels, coupled with a few hooks and weights, or a small box of lures, is all that is required, and of late, spectacular sport has been enjoyed by fly fishermen who have adapted their methods to suit the conditions, and the Bass’s feeding habits.
From the Boat
Boat fishing for Bass is one of the most productive ways to contact fish, and big ones at that, but it has to be said that Jersey waters are some of the most potentially dangerous in the British Isles. The vast tidal range, and the many inshore reefs systems set in shallow water, mean that those not totally familiar with local waters should not attempt to fish them without a guide, or someone with specific knowledge of the chosen area. In truth, it is probably these very reasons that play a large part in protecting stocks from over-fishing, but anyone who is fortunate enough to know an experienced boatman, or owner-skipper, who is prepared to take one out, is likely to enjoy the very best of Channel Island’s Bass fishing.
Most fishing is carried out amid the shallows and gullies of the inshore reefs, as the marauding Bass hunt for small bait- fish and crustaceans, and tactics can vary from free-lining live sand-eel, to casting or trolling plugs from the boat. On the deeper marks, most anglers choose to fish with whole Mackerel, or heavy fish imitative lures that are capable of being worked in depths of almost 200ft, where the Bass are feeding.
Charter boats occasionally land Bass from sand-banks, and areas of broken ground, but generally, it is the smaller craft that can navigate safely in the shallows, that specialise in catching this species.
Black Bream
From the Shore
Jersey has to be one of the best, if not the best, places to target specimen sized Black Bream from the shore, and the boat. In early spring, the migratory shoals move into island waters, and begin to be caught from the shore in good numbers as water temperatures climb. Most of the productive marks are located close to the full flow of the tide, which undoubtedly acts as a feeding spur to this species.
Bream will happily take worm baits, but most large specimens tend to fall to squid and cuttlefish strips, fished on two or three hook paternoster rigs. The species seems to prefer to ‘graze’ on areas of reef, and broken ground, and because of this, it is highly advisable to incorporate a ‘rotten bottom’ to one’s rig so that tackle loss is kept to a minimum.
Most local experts tend to concentrate their efforts on cliff marks to the west and north of the island, and whilst the access to some is difficult, most can be reached with a reasonable degree of caution. Daylight hours appear to be the most productive, but anglers are reminded that they should never fish alone, or without some means of communication in their possession. The rock marks at the bottom of the cliffs that form most of the northern coastline, can provide excellent fishing platforms, but are occasionally subject to freak swells that materialise in otherwise calm conditions, and can sweep the unwary from the fishing platform. Landing fish in these locations can also be tricky, and often a drop net is called for.
Standard beach casting rods are suitable for most conditions, coupled with 7000 size reels loaded with fifteen to twenty pounds breaking strain mainline, and shock leaders of fifty pounds to cope with the rough ground. Strong hooks and snoods are vital to cope with fish that will weigh in excess of three pounds, and often over four.
From the Boat
The Bream season for boat anglers lasts from early Spring, right through to Autumn, and the quality of sport, and the average size of the fish is unparalleled in European waters. The first shoals to reach inshore waters are invariably vast in numbers, and of high average size, with most fish being over three pounds. Four and even five pound fish are commonplace, and form part of catches that can run into 200 hundred fish in a session at peak times. The local charter skippers are truly expert in locating and catching these hard fighting fish, and have been the subject of many magazine articles and TV specials.
During the winter months, the Bream shoals move offshore on to deep water wrecks that lie some twenty miles offshore from the island, and providing sea conditions are favourable, some great sport can be had by those fortunate enough to fish these marks. Colossal Bream of over six pounds are taken each year, as well as huge Pollack, Cod and many other species, and anyone prepared to endure the elements is almost guaranteed to find plenty of fish.
Small boat angling for Bream is also very popular with Jersey anglers who either drift over reefs, or choose to anchor when the tide is not too strong and then lower their baits to the fish. When fishing in this way, it can be a great idea to attach a mesh bag filled with fish scraps to the anchor warp, to encourage fish to feed in the area.
Large catches of this beautiful species are not difficult when they are shoaling, and their numbers are, at present high, but anglers should be encouraged to return all their fish unless they have an immediate use for them. Even in depths of over 150ft, they will happily return to the bottom with no ill effects if they are handled with care during unhooking.
Conger
From the Shore
Jersey has a great tradition as a Conger fishery stretching back hundred’s of years, and to this day, can still be regarded as an excellent venue for those who seek these powerful adversaries. The fish rich waters that surround the island provide an excellent feeding ground for this voracious species, and Conger angling is a favourite pastime of many Jersey anglers. Most fishing is done at night from piers, harbours, and rock marks, when the fish emerge to feed with more confidence than in the hours of daylight.
Strong tackle is essential to even contemplate landing one of these heavy weights, and is often impossible without a companion’s assistance with the drop net, or gaff. Rods and reels should be powerful and capable of casting heavy baits and lead weights, as well as subduing Conger of up to fifty pounds and over. The average size of fish encountered will be between twenty and thirty pounds, but many much larger fish are hooked and lost each year by anglers who underestimate the power of a fish of that size. Main lines of thirty to forty pounds should be the norm, coupled with strong traces of heavy nylon, or wire, attached to seriously strong hooks. Baits are largely a matter of personal choice, but most anglers opt for large fish baits such as Mackerel, Pouting, and Mullet, or large squid and cuttlefish.
Conger inhabit virtually every stretch of coastline of reasonable depth around the island, especially areas where commercial fishing boats are moored, but some of the most successful marks are located on the cliffs to the north of Jersey that give onto patches of clean ground, set amongst generally rough ground. These cliff marks can be prolific, but great care should be taken when getting down to, and back up from these areas, and they should certainly never be fished alone.
From the Boat
Although Jersey cannot boast of the mid-Channel monsters that run to over one hundred pounds or more, what it’s fish may lack in size, is more than made up by the numbers of fish that can be caught. Most reefs hold plenty of fish to thirty pounds that can be targeted on relatively light tackle, but the deep- water wrecks that surround the island are another story. Here, the angler is faced with the problem of extricating fish of seventy pounds and more from the twisted metal structures that they call home, and none but the strongest tackle will achieve this. Technique is also tremendously important, as even the tiniest indication of a bite has to be hit, and hit hard, to remove the fish from the structure successfully. The clutch on one’s powerful reel has to be set virtually to the maximum in order to dictate terms to the fish, and prevent it from reaching the safety of the wreck.
Charter skippers realise the value of these fish as a sporting adversary and return almost all of their fish to fight another day, and all boat anglers should be encouraged to follow their example. It is certainly possible to completely fish out a wreck, or area of reef if all the fish landed are killed, and this will result in the mark being barren for many years to
Dogfish
The Lesser Spotted Dogfish, or the ‘doggy’ as it is locally known, is no stranger to Jersey waters, and to its anglers! For some reason, the waters surrounding the island provide an almost perfect habitat for this ravenous predator. Quite literally, if it swims, then Dogfish will eat it, as many shore and boat anglers have found to their cost. Lovingly prepared baits meant for Rays, Bass, Tope and Conger, are quickly reduced to tattered remains by these insatiable fish that hunt in packs, and miss nothing. It is not unusual, on several pier and breakwater marks around the island, to see a dozen or so rods nodding unmistakeably to the attentions of a similar number of Dogfish below, and they will continue to feed until either the bait runs out, or the tide forces them to stop eating.
Local anglers, who have been spoilt by the quality, and variety of angling at their disposal, treat the humble Dogfish with distain, but the species is much prized in certain areas of the UK, and undoubtedly provides a perfect species with which to learn the art of sea angling.
Mackerel & Garfish
Whilst neither of these species are often targeted by specimen hunters, they can provide great fun for those fishing for them with light tackle, as well as providing a great source of bait for other species. Almost every household in Jersey has a rod and reel, complete with a set of ‘feathers’ attached, lurking some where about the premises, awaiting the seasonal arrival of the first mackerel shoals. Those who wish to experience the sport of catching Mackerel, as well as the culinary delights, can do so with very light spinning tackle, or even fly rods to maximise their enjoyment, and similar fun can be had with the often acrobatic Garfish. Both species feed ravenously upon shoals of fry, often driving them from the water in their panic, and it is these signs that the angler should look out for. Occasionally, Gars and Mackerel will take a stationary bait, meant for other species, but invariably, one has to impart some movement to one’s feathers, or spinner to attract their attentions.
This process is easily achievable from the boat by simply ‘jigging’ artificial lures vertically in the water columns, and tremendous catches of five and six fish at a time can be regularly made. Whilst this can be great fun, one should remember to kill only those fish for which one has an immediate need, and return the rest to the sea.
Mullet anglers often bemoan the presence of Gars in the area that they have baited, and indeed, they can prove a nuisance, but anyone who wishes to catch lots of these fish, could do worse than imitate the mullet angler’s techniques.
Mullet
From the Shore
Jersey anglers are fortunate in that they can choose to fish for all three main species of Mullet, the most common, the Thick – Lipped, the rarer Thin – Lipped, and even the Golden Grey Mullet that are present in good numbers and to specimen size.
Thick-Lipped Mullet
These creatures of the tide visit virtually every harbour and bay in the island during some stage of the tide, normally as the first inches of water allow them access to the rich feeding grounds. This phenomenon can be observed on a twice daily basis, especially where the harbour bottom consists of sand and silt, and their dark backs and silvery flanks can be seen quite plainly as they dart about in only inches of water. Although this species has often been described as the ‘Grey Ghost’, they really are not that difficult to catch as long as one approaches their capture with some common sense. Jersey waters are some of the cleanest in Europe, and as such, make fish spotting quite easy, but this benefit also works against the angler because the fish are also aware of visual disturbances made by those who wish to catch them. To overcome this problem, it is often necessary to fish with fine lines and hook lengths, and with small baits presented on small, but strong hooks. The fish’s natural wariness can also be allayed by the introduction of groundbait, which normally consists of a bread based mixture that can be supplemented with fish oils and particles to further attract the Mullet. When a number of fish are present, it is often possible to create competition for these particles, and once this heavy feeding starts, the angler can introduce his baited hook with much more confidence. The hook should be baited with either bread flake, or small slivers of fish or meat, that have an attractive smell.
Probably the best tackle with which to target this species is standard coarse fishing rods and reels of the ‘match’, or ‘carp’ type, with the most important requirements being soft tip actions in the rods, and a top quality drag system in the reels. Both of these design features will help to prevent line breaks when these powerful fish are first hooked, and are brought to the landing net. Pound for pound, they fight as hard as any of our resident species, and it is this fact that makes them such a popular quarry for local and visiting anglers.
Golden Grey Mullet
This species inhabits the same areas as the Thick –Lipped Mullet, but chooses to feed on small marine food such as worms, shrimps, and many other small inhabitants of the harbours and foreshore. Another important aspect of their feeding characteristics, is that they prefer a bait to be presented on the bottom, rather than suspended at different depths beneath a float. Lightweight ledgering tactics work best, coupled with soft topped rods that will indicate the slightest interest from a feeding fish. Ground baiting appears to be unnecessary for the Golden Greys, but the introduction of small amounts of the hook bait at periodic intervals will certainly attract more fish to the area.
Thin-Lipped Mullet
Incredibly, for three species of the same family, and with appearances so similar that they are often mistaken for one another, the Thin –Lipped Mullet, has different feeding habits to the others. Whilst the Thick –Lipped and the Golden Grey have been known to take dead fish baits meant for other species, the Thin – Lipped appears to be more of a predator in search of small live fish. It can be targeted with worms and many other baits, but movement appears to be the key with this species, and the attachment of a small spoon, or spinner to one’s end tackle, certainly increases one’s chances of success.
From the Boat
There is no good reason why fishing for all these species cannot be successfully practised from a boat, and indeed, several anglers have enjoyed quite good catches with this method, but the fact that most harbours and marinas have rules forbidding anyone fishing from their craft, means that most tend to choose to fish from quiet corners of these areas, where disturbance in kept to a minimum. The exceptions to this however, are the many gutters and inlets where these fish can be found in numbers, and which are inaccessible from the shore with any degree of safety. The fact that these areas are rarely targeted, certainly makes the fish less wary, and easier to catch, but once again, disturbance has to be kept to an absolute minimum to avoid ‘spooking’ the fish.
Pollack
For angling purposes, it is best to describe the Pollack as virtually three different species: Immature fish weighing up to a pound, fish from one to five pounds, and mature fish that grow to over twenty pounds. The main reason for categorising them in this way is that they inhabit different depths of water, and are caught in totally different locations.
The immature fish frequent the shallow reef systems and harbours that afford it the most cover, often swimming with small fish of other species such as Bass and Mullet. They are often caught from piers and harbour walls, especially at night, when they feed voraciously on worm baits fished below a float.
The mid-sized fish from one to five pounds, are keen to put on weight as fast as they can, and prefer to seek out areas where natural baits such as sandeels and fish fry are present, normally on the sandbanks and shallow reef systems that surround the island. These fish can often be a nuisance when fishing for Bass with live sandeel, or with artificial plugs and lures, either cast from the boat, or trolled behind at low speed. Fortunately, the shallowness of the water allows them to be returned quite successfully, without damage to their internal organs.
The mature fish of this species is a supreme predator, designed with speed and aggression in mind. These powerhouses gather close to deep water reefs and wrecks to gorge themselves on the abundance of bait fish present, and such is the competition for food, that they hit natural, and anglers baits alike with incredible ferocity. Although quite lightweight rods can be used to enjoy the best of this terrific action, a multiplying reel with a quality drag system is an absolute must to cope with the initial ‘hit’ and first crash dive of a hooked fish.
Large Pollack will take live Mackerel and Scad meant for other species such as Bass and Tope, but most are caught on artificial lures such as rubber eels, jelly worms, and metal lures designed to imitate baitsfish, that are lowered to the wreck or reef, and then retrieved at exactly the right speed to attract and hook the feeding fish. The successful retrieval rate is often the difference between back breaking action, and total failure, and much experimentation is often neccessary. Any fish brought from depths of almost two hundred feet to the surface will struggle to cope with the changes in pressure, and the Pollack is particularly vulnerable to this problem. If the hooked fish is to be returned ( which in most cases is desirable), then it should be brought to the surface slowly and steadily, but even then some will fall foul of decompression, and perish. These fish have a limited worth as a food source, and little market value, and yet give the angler tremendous sport, and so every consideration should be given to protecting stocks as much as possible.
Rays
Jersey is very fortunate in that it provides ideal habitat for many species of Rays, both from the shore and from the boat, and many anglers come from overseas to sample the excellent sport. Although most members of the Ray family are present, the species most commonly caught are Blonde, Small-Eyed, and Undulate Ray, and all of these are regularly taken to specimen size.
From the Boat
The many sand and shingle banks that lie close to our shores are heavily populated by Rays that choose these areas to feed on the abundant sandeel populations that seek cover from the strong tides. Just as these bait fish choose an optimum time to emerge to feed from their burrows in the sand, so too do the Rays, and this means that fishing for this species can often be a waiting game unless one is familiar with the habits of the fish that inhabit any chosen area. When this feeding commences however, the sport can sometimes be hectic, with a succession of fish being hooked and brought to the boat. Twenty pound Blonde Rays are relatively common, with fish often being landed in excess of thirty pounds, and fish of over fifty being landed in commercial fishermen’s nets, so the potential for a British record breaker could hardly be better. Small-Eyed Rays inhabit the same areas, and although they do not grow to the same huge proportions, the potential for a record breaker is just as realistic with double figure fish being taken with great regularity.
Thought the banks from which these fish are caught often lie in relatively shallow water, they are subject to very strong tidal flow, and the combination of this fact, and the ability of the fish to use its body shape to maximise the resistance to one’s tackle, means that strong tackle should be used. Rays feed on, or very close to the sea bed, and the ability to place one’s bait hard on the bottom, and keep it there despite the force of the tide trying to lift it into mid water, is essential for success. Weights of over a pound, and sometimes as heavy as two pounds are regularly needed to achieve this, and one’s tackle should also be capable of handling this gear. Rods in the thirty to fifty pound class may appear to be too powerful to anyone who has yet to hook and fight a twenty pound plus Blonde Ray in three knots of tide, but be assured, tackle of lesser strength will be incapable of making any impression on the fish should it decide to ‘kite’ in the tide, or attach itself to the sea bed. Reels should be powerfully geared, and loaded with a minimum of thirty pounds breaking strain braided line for ‘down-tiding’ and monofilament of twenty pounds at least when ‘up-tiding’. Rays have relatively small mouths, and although hooks do not necessarily have to be large, they certainly have to be razor sharp, and very strong to with stand the rigours of lifting large fish in strong tide.
Sandeel is a very popular, and successful bait for both species of Ray found locally, but so too is Mackerel fillet, especially when combined with strips of squid. These should be fished on traces of three to four feet in length, attached to a simple running ledger rig, not forgetting to select strong swivels as components at all times. When ‘up-tiding’, one should attempt to place the grip lead as far up the tide as possible so as to minimise the affect of the flow on the main line. One should then allow sufficient line to be released from the reel to form a ‘bow’ in the water, so that when the fish lifts the bait from the bottom, the force of the tide actually hooks the fish. Whilst this method relies more on the angler’s ability to correctly place and secure his bait, rather than his skill at hooking the fish, it can be a very successful method, especially when bites are infrequent from other techniques.
From the Shore
Ray fishing is extremely popular with Jersey anglers, especially those who choose to fish at night from a whole range of different rock marks, piers, and breakwaters. The sight of angler’s lights and headlamps is very common on most of our harbours and bays, once the hours of darkness encroach, and the main reason that they choose to fish at these times, is that the fish appear to feed more confidently when light levels drop. Although Rays are caught occasionally from rough ground marks, most come from sand and shingle banks that are found close to rougher ground, and fall within the casting distance of the angler. Standard beachcasters, coupled with reels in the 7000 size range are ideal for this type of fishing, and although the average size of fish caught is smaller than those from the boat, some very good specimens can be landed on a variety of baits, including sandeel, mackerel strip, and squid. Fishing from some marks high above the waterline calls for a drop net to enable the angler to raise a hooked fish from the surface of the water without snapping his line. Many rock marks have been made very slippery by the action of the waves and the marine growth clinging to them, and great care therefore, should be taken by those descending to net a fish. Many areas are also subject to ‘freak’ swells, that appear from an otherwise calm sea, and present a very real danger to anglers, and it is because of this that fishing alone should not be considered under any circumstances.
Sole, Plaice and Flounder.
From The Shore.
Until quite recently, all three of these species were quite commonly caught by rod anglers, but stocks have declined for various reasons, and they are now targeted by specimen hunters who are prepared to put in long hours to enjoy their success.
All three fish prefer to feed over sand and gravel banks that hold good stocks of worm, which form most of their diet, and it is these areas, that the angler should target, especially when the sandy areas lay between areas of reef, or mixed ground. Harbour mouths, and pier heads are also prolific areas, especially when the first inches of the flood tide creep over the mud flats, and allow fish to enter the area to feed.
There are a number of northern rock marks that give on to clean sand that is located in quite deep water below the cliffs, but these are relatively difficult to access, and should not be fished alone.
From the Boat.
Suprisingly, when one considers the number of sand and gravel banks that surround the island, boat fishing for Sole and Plaice is very rarely practised. Commercial vessells take good numbers of these fish, and divers report seeing them in profusion, but unlike in the British Isles, they are rarely fished for by local rods. Occasionally, specimen fish are taken by boats drifting over sand banks for Turbot nd Brill, but these fall to sandeel and fish strip baits, and not the more commonly successful bait of worm used elsewhere.
Squid
Some readers will be suprised to see Squid included in the species category, but anyone who has been fortunate enough to hook a good sized Squid, and then subsequently eat it, will need no persuading that it merits an inclusion.
Whilst Squid of all sizes are present in our waters throughout the calender year, most angling action centres on the larger sized specimens that come inshore during the hours of darkness to feed around piers and harbours, especially under bright lights and lanterns.
These have been targeted with small sandeel and fish strip baits worked under the lights in a sink and draw method, but these have been replaced by a whole host of Japanese artificial imitations that seem irresistible to feeding squid. As in many kinds of fishing, the speed, and manner of retrieval appears to be the key to successful Squid catching, and indeed, on a freezing night in January or February, it can be a very frustrating business. And then one remembers the sublime taste of really fresh squid, and the thought of succombing to the cold fades away.
The Tope
It was thought for many years, that the Tope only spent a very short time each year in Jersey waters, feeding on the migratory shoals of bait fish such as Mackerel, Scad, and Bream, that spend the warmer months around the island.
Catches in recent times however, especially by the local Charter boat fleet, indicate that they are present for much of the year, and can be targeted with some confidence. Whilst the massive eighty pound fish of the Thames, and Severn Estuaries are rarely encountered in our waters, Jersey certainly has a terrific Tope fishery for anyone who wishes to fish for this species of the shark family.
From the Boat
Although Tope have been caught from one or two marks on our shoreline, it is from the boat that one should realistically target these fish. Unlike many other predatory species that can be caught in our waters, they seem to prefer deep water marks, rather than shallow reefs and rough ground. They undoubtedly hunt in packs, and terrific sport can be enjoyed once their feeding locations have been located, and this is often as simple as finding the bait fish on which they are feeding. Basic echo sounding equipment can be used to find the larger shoals of bait, and if they are present, then it is a good bet that the Tope will not be far away. Another good idea is to attract fish to the boat by suspending, or tying to the anchor warp, a mesh bag filled with fish scraps that can be broken up by the tide’s movement, and distributed over a wide area. Hook baits should consist of either whole fish that have been ‘flappered’ to impart movement in the tide, or fillets of fish that will give off a decent scent. Although the Tope’s initial take, and subsequent run, can be quite a violent affair, they provide great sport in open water, and can be fished for with relatively light tackle quite safely. Rods in the fifteen to twenty pound class range can be used, in combination with good quality boat reels that have a decent drag system. Hook lengths should be constructed from either wire, or heavy monofilament, but a useful addition is ten feet or so, of fifty or sixty pound line as a ‘rubbing trace’ that will prevent the fish’s rough skin breaking one’s line as it chafes against its body. Once hooked, and brought to the side of the boat, the Tope should never be brought into the boat, to avoid damaging both the fish, and the occupants of the craft. Far better to employ a ‘hook jumper’ or similar device for unhooking the fish safely at the side of the craft, and even if the fish is deep hooked, one should sever the trace with either pliers, or a knife to minimise the distress caused to the fish. The hook and trace will quickly rust away, and will not impart long term damage to the fish. Similarly, Tope have very limited attraction as a food source, and should never be killed in any numbers.
The Wrasse
Several species of Wrasse are to be found in Jersey waters, but for sporting purposes, it is the Ballan Wrasse that occupies the thoughts of specimen hunters on the island, with fish running to well over seven pounds in weight.
From the Shore
The Wrasse is a territorial species, staking a claim for an area of ocean where it can feed, breed, and rear its young in safety, and its defence of these areas is often as vigorous as its feeding habits. Wrasse are often taken on artificial lures meant for Bass and Pollack, but in general, they are more likely to be consistently caught on crabs and worm baits. When choosing a home, or ‘nest’, they select areas that contain as much natural food as possible, and as the food that they seek obeys the same principles, both are normally found close to reefs and rocks that have plenty of cover from which to ambush their prey. Any solid structure will serve this purpose, but the most common are kelp filled gullies and gutters, and man made structures such as harbour foundations and breakwaters, that have myriad nooks and crannies in which to hide. If an area holds crabs of any number of varieties, then it is a sure bet that wrasse will be present, and the angler’s choice of bait therefore, could not be simpler. Simple Green shore crab is the most successful bait bar none, with the best size being a one and a half, to a two inch crab impaled on a very strong hook, and either fished beneath a float, or on a simple paternostered ledger rig. The emphasis should be on simplicity and strength, with strong rods, reels, and lines of at least thirty pounds BS. being the order of the day. The very first thing that these fish do when hooked, is to seek the shelter of their bolt holes, and once they have gained sanctuary, they have an uncanny ability to transfer ones end gear to an immovable obstruction. On hooking a fish. One’s tackle has to be strong enough to ‘hit and hold’, preventing the fish from gaining the initiative, and bringing it into open water.
From the Boat
Boat angling for Wrasse is much neglected by local anglers, but at periods of slack water, when more predatory fish tend not to feed, they are an excellent choice for the boat angler. The abundant rough, and broken ground that surrounds the island, provides perfect living and feeding conditions for the Wrasse, and they can run to immense size, as Tony Heart’s local, and British boat record of just under ten pounds, proves. Once again crab baits work best, especially if one is able to get hold of some fresh Hermit crab, which seems to be a real favourite with the larger specimens. Tackle from the boat should be similar to that used from the shore – strong and functional, but the boat angler definitely has the advantage over his shore based contemporary, in that he is able to effect direct leverage over the fish, rather than having to drag the fish through a series of obstructions, at an angle.
Whether one chooses to fish from shore or boat, there is certainly no shortage of natural bait that can be gathered easily, all around the coastline. Most inshore reefs, that become uncovered by the massive tidal ranges that affect the island, teem with crab and worm, and a couple of hours spent in these areas should give the angler plenty of bait for a day or two’s
Locations
NORTH & NORTHWEST
These are probably the most dramatic of Jersey’s forty-five miles of shoreline. The three and four hundred foot cliffs provide long sloping headlands which, here and there, give access to deep water marks ideal for shore fishing.
Big wrasse will snap up a green crab as big as a fifty pence piece among the boulder filled gullies on this coast and, when working a plug out in the deeper water, hungry bass can hit the lure like an express train. The north coast is garfish country too. Eight pound line and light float tackle will tempt them and put a very satisfying bend in a carp rod. You could also contact a hefty conger or two but generally they are a night-time quarry and the fishing can be superb. Occasionally the cliffs are cut by wooded valleys leading down to tiny harbours which provide a less rugged means of getting a bait into the water. Here you’ll find cafes, toilets, parking facilities, pubs, small beaches and terminal bus routes from St. Helier. Starting from the north west corner of the Island, the bays with road access are; Gréve de Lecq Bay, Bonne Nuit Bay, Bouley Bay and Rozel Bay. Each of these bays has a pier and there is access to promontories on either side.
The piers are very popular among local anglers in early summer when big black bream move in shore. If you combine your angling with natural history, the north coast features fulmar petrels, a number of shag colonies, lesser and greater black-backed gulls, herring gulls and puffins. There are also wild flowers and butterflies in profusion along the cliff walks linking the bays.
GREVE DE LECQ
Located on the north coast of the island, this pier is a great favourite with local anglers, especially from dusk into darkness when any number of different species can be caught from the mark, on a variety of baits. The adjacent sandy beach also fishes well when there is not too much weed in the water, as do the rocks to the left of the pier where Mullet can be regularly found in the gullies. The mark is well served by car parking available at the pier head and close to the beach, and is illuminated at night. Most angling is carried out 2 hours before and after high water, though in the hours of darkness, Bass will often feed on large static deadbaits in only inches of water provided there is no disturbance.
The mark is especially popular in rough weather when many fish seek the shelter of the bay.
SPECIES
The pier is especially popular for those in search of Rays and Bass, but depending on the time of year, many other species can be caught including Conger, Bream, Pouting, Wrasse, Pollack, Gars, Mullet, Mackerel, Sole, Plaice, and Dogfish. In the coldest months of the year large squid can be jigged under the lights of the pier.
BEST BAITS
The choice of baits that will catch is almost as long as the list of species, but most anglers prefer to use worm, sand-eel and squid. Mullet anglers use fish strip and bread flake combined with minced fish and bread groundbait known locally as ‘chirvy’.
TACKLE
Medium sized beach casting gear will cope with the broken ground around the pier, with better casters being able to reach clean sand located about 80yds directly out to sea. A drop net is essential to land the larger species.
Most anglers fish either two hook paternosters or short flowing traces attached to ordinary leads to search out the fish.
GETTING THERE
From St. Helier, the capital, take the A2 west as far as the A12 turn off at Beaumont and then stay on the A12 through to St Ouen’s Village. Continue on the A12 until the right hand turn of the B65 which will take you down to the bay.
TACKLE SHOP
Best equipped shops are JFS Sport in either Green St. or the fish market in St. Helier. Although bait and rudimentary items of gear can be purchased at St. Ouen’s Motorworks on the main road.
SOREL POINT
This north coast promontory enjoys fabulous views across to the French coast as well as other islands in the Channel group such as Sark and Guernsey. The fierce tidal run that flows past the point is famed locally for its Mackerel fishing, with most anglers casting feathers and small spinners into the tide and retrieving at high speed. Pollack and Bass also feed here and are often caught on artificial lures. Ballan wrasse inhabit the kelpy rough ground closer to shore and can reach specimen size, best method for these is float fished green crab.
Bottom fishing can be hazardous due to the rough terrain, but anglers fishing with heavy tackle can expect to occasionally land Rays, Dogfish and Conger.
SPECIES
In spring and summer, Mackerel are the main species present, with Pollack and Bass always a possibility. Wrasse fishing can be excellent in the warmer months.
BAIT
Feathers, small metal lures, and spoons will take Mackerel, with larger artificials such as YO-ZURI minnows, Rapalas, and Redgills best for Pollack and Bass. Most productive static baits are sand-eel, squid, and mackerel fillet. Green shore crab and peelers are best for Ballan Wrasse.
TACKLE
Light, to medium spinning rods for fishing with lures, and for the bottom fishing medium to heavy beachcasting rods and reels in the 7500 class.
GETTING THERE
Follow the A9 as far as St. John’s village, then turn right on to La Route Du Nord (C101) which will take you past Ronez quarry. Once past the quarry there is another right hand turn which leads to the point. There is space for a couple of cars close to the viewing point from which can take the short walk to the rock mark below.
BONNE NUIT BAY
Situated on the north coast of the island, this pretty little bay is a great favourite with local anglers who fish for early season Mackerel and Garfish during the day and for larger species such as Ray and Bass at night. The harbour is home to a whole host of commercial and privately owned boats, and their mooring lines make fishing in the inner harbour almost impossible. To seaward however, many species visit the area to feed on the abundance of bait present, and can be caught at short range as well as long distance. The bay is very busy during daylight hours and most anglers therefore prefer to fish there during the early hours and in darkness. Specimen sized Bass have been caught in very shallow water by anglers who have kept disturbance levels to a minimum. The pier is very popular with anglers in search of Bream in the spring and early summer, but the nearby rock marks are also worth trying for Bass on plugs, and Mullet on breadflake and groundbait. Large Wrasse can be caught on either ledgered, or float fished shore Crab, both from the pier and from the nearby gutters and gullies.
SPECIES
Depending on the time of year, this bay is visited, or is a permanent home to many species including: Bass, Bream, Rays, Pouting, Pollack, Mackerel, Conger, Wrasse, Mullet, Garfish, and the ubiquitous Dogfish. In the coldest of winter months the pier head is a local hot spot for large Squid that run to three and four pounds, and can be caught on jigs under the lights of the structure.
BEST BAITS
Conger and Rays prefer a whole fish, or large fillet fished hard on the bottom, with most other species prepared to take a variety of worm and fish baits. Fresh and frozen sand-eel is very popular with local anglers, and those fishing for Bream tend to prefer paternostered Squid strip.
Mullet, Mackerel, and Garfish will all accept float-fished fish strip and breadflake, especially when combined with minced fish groundbait. Live green shore crab is the best bait for the large Wrasse.
TACKLE
Medium to heavy beachcasters are required to extricate Conger and Rays from the rough ground in front, and at the back of the pier, but for most other species a Bass rod will suffice to fish bottom baits at medium range. Locals prefer simple, strong, end rigs for the larger species, and paternosters for Bream and Pouting. Sliding float rigs work well for Pollack and Bass as they chase the fry along the wall.
GETTING THERE
From St. Helier travel north on the Grande Route De St. Jean as far as St. John’s village before turning onto the B52 at the side of the Jersey Pearl building. Follow this road for half a mile until a left hand turning that is signposted for Bonne Nuit. The road down to the bay is very winding and should be negotiated at slow speed, particularly at the very bottom of the hill. There are car parking spaces for twenty or so cars on the pier, with overflow spots available further up the hill.
BOULEY BAY
This picturesque bay is located on the north coast of the island, and is very popular with local anglers, especially during the hours of darkness, when some excellent catches can be made. The pier can be easily accessed and is a safe and productive mark from which to fish, although the beach, and the rock marks to either side of the bay are also worth a try for several species.
SPECIES
The relatively deep water at high tide attracts many different species to feed in the area, and anglers can target Bream, Rays, Bass, Pouting, Dogfish, with a variety of baits and methods. Flatfish also frequent the mark, and normally fall to worm baits. In summer the pier is visited by shoals of Mackerel that can be caught on feathers cast and retrieved from the wall. In the coldest months of the winter, good sized Squid can be caught on jigs from beneath the pier lights during the hours of darkness. Mackerel feathers and Squid jigs work well in season.
BEST BAITS
Squid strip fished on paternoster rigs work best for the Bream and Pouting, with mackerel strip and fish fillets working well for Rays, Bass, and Conger.
TACKLE
Standard beachcasting rods and reels will cover most techniques, with heavier tackle only required when targeting Conger and Rays. A drop net is very useful when landing larger specimens.
GETTING THERE
From St. Helier, take the A8, LA ROUTE DE LA TRINITE, turning right at the ‘T’ junction onto the B31, before turning left onto the C102 La Rue Du Boulay which winds its way down to the bay. Parking is available on and near to the pierhead.
ROZEL BAY
Set at the bottom of a wooded valley on the north coast of Jersey, this picture-postcard harbour is very popular with local and visiting anglers alike, and has the benefit of providing an ideal location for the rest of the family to enjoy while the angler wets a line. The beach is home to a small fishing fleet and their mooring lines mean that one must fish from the pier out to sea to avoid fouling them. At the eastern and of the bay the rocky coastline stretches round Le Couperon point and into the next bay, known as Le Scaie, and all this ground provides excellent Bass fishing at low water, although great care should be taken when there is a swell. The bay is particularly well suited to fishing at first light and into darkness when the disturbance levels drop dramatically and fish can be caught very close to shore.
SPECIES
In spring, summer, and autumn the mark is well known for producing a whole host of species from Mackerel, Gars, Bream, and Wrasse during the day, and Rays, Bass, and Pouting at night.
Plugging for Bass is very successful with a variety of lures cast into the tide run and kelp filled gullies. In the coldest months of winter, the pier head attracts large Squid which can be jigged beneath the harbour lights.
BEST BAITS
From the pier, fish baits such as sand-eel, mackerel and squid work well at night, with more fish falling to worm baits during daylight hours. Mackerel will take feathers in late spring, and Bass can be caught from the rocks to the east on shallow diving and surface lures.
TACKLE
Medium size beachcasting rods and reels will cope with most situations from the pier, coupled with standard paternoster or running ledger end rigs. Grip leads can be an advantage when fishing at times of strong tide, or in rough weather, when the mark fishes particularly well.
Standard spinning rods and fixed spool reels are ideal for the rock marks to the east.
GETTING THERE
This can be a little tricky with a whole host of small lanes leading off in different directions on this coast, but the best way is to drive to St. Martin on the B30 and then take the right hand turn past the Royal Hotel on to the Grande Route De Rozel ( B38). Follow this road until a T junction and then turn right and stay on this road down the valley to the harbour. To fish Le Saie for Bass, turn right onto the B91 halfway down to the bay and then take a left towards Le Saie and Le Coup, which are both signposted.
WHITE ROCK
This spectacularly beautiful rock mark is situated on the north coast of Jersey and offers tremendous views of the French coastline some fifteen miles distant. The headland juts out into the fierce tidal run that this area is subject to, and provides excellent ground for a whole number of predatory species to feed. The path down to the fishing area is quite steep in places and requires a certain level of fitness and agility to reach safely and return from, but can be well worth the effort. The top of the headland provides a perfect picnic area for the family and offers panoramic views of the whole coastline and the French mainland.
SPECIES
White Rock is well known on the island for the quality of its Gar fishing in early spring, but the mark also holds Bass, Pollack, Mackerel, Bream, and Conger.
BEST BAITS
Float- fished Mackerel and Gar strip are best for the Garfish, especially when combined with minced fish groundbait, or ‘shirvy’ as it is locally known. Bass and Pollack will take ledgered fish baits such as Mackerel and sand-eel, as will conger, particularly at night. Most Bream fall to paternostered squid strip fished into the run. The mark can also produce good bags to artificial lures fished in the turbulent areas with the choice of lure being dependant on the rate of flow.
TACKLE
Light spinning gear has the advantage of being suitable for both float fishing for the Gars and plugging for Bass and Pollack. Medium to heavy beachcasters will be needed when bottom fishing as the ground is quite rough and tackle losses are inevitable. Rotten bottom rigs are recommended, especially for Conger.
GETTING THERE
From the village of St. Martin, follow the signs to Jersey Zoo on the B31, and then turn right on to the Rue Du Pot Du Rocquier just before the zoo entrance. This road leads onto the C93 north coast road which descends down to Rozel Bay. Just before entering the bay, there is a left hand turn, La Rue du Catel which climbs up the hill again and leads to a turn off to the car parking area on top of the headland. From the car park, head over the point and follow the path down to the gulley at the bottom and then carefully cross over to the outcrop beyond. Follow the track down to the point and fish from the last set of rocks. This mark should only be fished either side of low water to avoid being cut off by the incoming tide, and should never be fished alone, or by anyone with fitness problems. Night fishing the mark should only be considered when accompanied by an experienced angler who knows the terrain.
SOUTH WEST
ST. AUBIN’S ROCKS (Bel Croute Bay)
West of St. Aubin’s harbour lies the pretty bay of Bel Croute where there is a small slipway giving on to clean sand, but to the right of the beach the shoreline becomes rocky and extends right around to Noirmont Point. At low water it is possible to fish this area on a mobile basis, but great care must be taken to avoid being cut off by the incoming tide as the cliffs above are a dangerous climb. Spinning with plugs and artificial lures is very successful here, with clear water conditions at first and last light the best times to try.
To the left of the slip are some rocks that provide a good fishing platform for flat fish, Bass, Pollack, and several other species, particularly at night. These rocks will become cut off by the high tide, so a close watch is needed to guarantee a safe exit.
SPECIES
Bass are the main target for those fishing the rocks to the right of the beach, with good numbers of schoolies present but also the chance of much larger fish to double figures.
From the slip itself and the rocks to the left, a number of species follow the tide on its way to St. Aubin’s bay including Sole, Bass, Mullet, and Dogfish.
TACKLE
Standard spinning rods and reels should be used to cast shallow diving lures from the rocks where fish will be feeding in the gullies. Surface poppers work well in settled conditions, and can often induce vicious takes from hungry Bass, as well as Pollack and Mackerel.
Fly fishing with sand-eel imitations and Clouser Minnows is particularly effective in this area, and can produce great sport on light tackle.
Worm baits, and frozen sand-eel, work well from the rocks to the left of the slip for several species.
GETTING THERE
From St.Aubin, climb the hill by way of the Grande Route de St. Brelade until the left hand turn to La Rute de Noirmont. Follow this road for about a mile until you come to another left hand turn to Le Chemin de Bel Croute which is a very winding road that takes you down to the bay itself. There is parking for a small number of cars close to the slip, but turning room is restricted.
NOIRMONT POINT
This massive headland dominates the western end of St. Aubin’s Bay and is guarded by a lighthouse below to warn shipping of the dangers that lurk there. The powerful tidal flow passes very close to the outcrop of rock at the foot of the mark and allows the angler to place his bait in a prolific feeding area that is frequented by many species. The mark is fished two hours either side of low water to allow one to reach the outer platform and return before the tide cuts it off from the shore. The rock that provides a base for the light also provides an excellent fishing platform for the angler who can either bottom fish, or cast plugs into the turbulent flow. From the headland above the climb down to the mark looks quite daunting, but in truth it is easily attainable by anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. The area is subject to occasional rogue swells, and the angler should remain alert at all times to the prevailing conditions and the sea state.
The rocks that stretch away from the point in either direction are excellent for plugging for Bass, but access and egress can be tricky. Fishing from low tide up can be tremendous with very large Bass always on the cards, but particular attention should be paid to the incoming tide to avoid being cut off.
SPECIES
Situated as close as it is to the main tidal flow, Noirmont hosts a whole variety of predatory species that feed on the bait that gathers there to shelter. Bass, Pollack, Mackerel, Garfish, Bream, and Conger canal be targeted with confidence, and Wrasse and Mullet are also on the cards in the gullies.
BEST BAITS
Fish baits such as Mackerel, Pouting, and Sand-eel will catch most species, with worm and green shore Crab best for the Wrasse. Float-fished fish strip will account for Gars and Mackerel, especially when combined with minced fish groundbait introduced regularly. Mullet will also be attracted to this ‘shirvy’, as it is locally known, and can be caught on bread flake or Mackerel strip. Two and three hook paternostered squid strip is the best option for Bream that can run to well over three pounds. Bass and Pollack will take medium to heavy lures and spinners cast into the flow, with plugs and ‘Yans’ of around 150 grammes working well.
TACKLE
Medium to heavy beachcasters will be required to fish this rough ground area, coupled with rotten bottom rigs to reduce tackle loss. Simple running ledger, or pulley rigs work best, with the emphasis being on strength rather than complex design. Grip leads will be necessary at most times to combat the strong tidal flow, with weights of six ounces being the norm. Strong float, or bottom tackle is needed to prevent the Wrasse, that run to over six pounds, from escaping in the kelp strewn gullies. Standard spinning outfits will allow one to explore the superb ground in the area for Bass and Pollack, with surface and shallow diving lures working well. Mullet should be targeted with standard coarse fishing gear combined with either a long handled landing net, or a drop net.
GETTING THERE
From the capital, St. Helier, drive west toward St. Aubin and then onto the A13 towards St. Brelade. Look for a left hand turn, the B57, at the top of the hill above St. Aubin, which is the Route De Noirmont and will lead right to the headland itself. Parking is in the car park on top of the promontory, and this also provides an excellent picnic spot for any non- anglers. There is a track that leads down to the lighthouse, which although quite steep, is relatively safe. The rocky platform of the light is best for bottom fishing, with the rocks and gullies either side of the mark suitable for float fishing and spinning.
SOUTH EAST
GREVE D'AZETTE TO LA HOCQ
This area of coastline has often been likened to a ‘moonscape’ such is the appearance of the massive reef system from the road at low tide. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth, as the area is absolutely teeming with natural life forms of all sorts, that thrive among the sandy gullies and rock pools. The reef system affords perfect cover for immature fish of many species that wish to avoid larger predators, and the abundance of crabs, razor fish, worms, and many other natural baits, means that the area is full of fish that visit the feeding grounds with the rise and fall of the tide each day. The reef system is punctuated by a series of gutters that form a passage between the rocks from the beach to the open sea, and it is these ‘highways’ that the fish use as the tide rushes in. These are the target areas to be fished by anglers on a mobile basis with either live sandeel, worm, or crab bait, or with floating plugs and spinners. Chest waders are often essential to enable one to access the best spots, but great care must be taken to avoid being cut off by the incoming tide.
SPECIES
Bass are the prime target species for shore anglers, although Wrasse and several species of flatfish can be taken from the boat. Mullet are frequent visitors to the area, and can be caught on floatfished bread flake, and even on fly rods with tiny shrimp imitations.
BEST BAITS
For Bass, one should concentrate on the natural food present, i.e. sandeel, crab and worm. The waters of the bay are quite shallow and are best fished with shallowdiving, or floating lures and plugs. Fly fishing with floating lines and sandeel imitation flies works well from low tide up.
TACKLE
For bait fishing, and for plugging, a light Bass rod, or freshwater carp rod, coupled with a fixed spool reel, is perfect for this type of fishing. For those wishing to try the fly rod, opt for an eight or nine weight outfit, matched with floating and intermediate lines, and two to three inch bait imitation flies.
GETTING THERE
From St. Helier, take La Grande Route De La Cote (A4) which runs all along the coast in an easterly direction from Greve D’Azette to La Rocque Harbour. The beach, and fishing marks can be accessed from a number of car parks situated at the roadside.
WEST COAST
St. OUEN’S BAY
Popular with surfers and wind-surfers, this five mile long Atlantic facing beach is a genuine enigma in that it is fished so rarely by local anglers. The golden sands of the strand lead on to rock gullies and reef formations that teem with bait of all sorts and divers report regular sightings of large shoals of Sole, Plaice, Mullet, and Bass close to shore. Low water fishermen enjoy tremendous catches of Lobster and Crab, and yet despite the overwhelming evidence in its favour, the beach is subject to virtually no angling pressure. Visiting anglers well versed in the techniques suitable to this type of mark would surely enjoy consistent catches of many species, as well as having an un-tapped area for bait gathering. At the northern end of the bay is the L’Etacq reef and headland that is popular with Bass fishermen who spin and plug from the slip and in the gullies close to shore, and at the southern end the Rocco Tower is a Napoleonic structure that is accessible at low water and can be fished through the night in safety.
In short, the beach presents a wonderful opportunity to anglers who are prepared to experiment with various tactics at different stages of the tide, particularly at night. Wading is generally quite safe, but there are areas that are subject to undertow and cross currents, and fishing alone is therefore not to be recommended.
Fishing at high tide from the sea wall often produces very large Bass, but the wall is subject to swells breaching over its length in very rough weather.
SPECIES
The bay is a nursery area for many species and therefore is subject to the attention of predators such as Bass and Pollack which take advantage of the massive levels of natural bait present. Flatfish of several types also feed well on the vast beds of Lugworm found throughout the whole length of the beach. Spear-fishermen regularly report sightings of shoals of very large Thin-Lipped Mullet, but as yet none have fallen to rod anglers in any numbers.
BAIT
Standard baits for Bass and flats such as worm and sand-eel should work well, with peeler crab sure to produce fish. The best plan is to examine the area you wish to fish at low water and then utilise the natural bait present when fishing the tide up.
TACKLE
Light to medium beach casting gear should cover most situations, with a mobile approach probably being most successful. Spinning gear will produce Bass, as will fly fishing with sand-eel imitations in the surf line.
GETTING THERE
From St. Peter’s Village, take the B41 down Jubilee Hill which leads on down to the bay. There are numerous parking areas along the whole length of the beach where toilets and refreshments can be found.
TACKLE SHOPS
The nearest tackle shop is in St.Ouen’s village at the St. Ouen’s Motorworks garage shop, where fresh and frozen bait and most tackle items are available.
CORBIERE LIGHT
Probably one of the most photographed spots on the whole of the island, the lighthouse at Corbiere stands guard over the western approaches to Jersey and warns shipping of the dangers of the Jailers reef that lies in wait for the unwary. Located at the southern end of St. Ouen’s Bay, the point is subject to fierce tidal runs and large swells and the rock that forms a platform for the light is cut off at high tide. Either side of low water however, the area is fishable with a large degree of caution, but can at times produce some wonderful sport and be well worth the effort needed to access the mark. Although other species including Conger and Wrasse can be caught here, the whole area screams Bass, with most anglers choosing to fish a variety of lures in the boils and turbulent gullies that surround the light, and the rocks on either side. There is a slipway out to the lighthouse that is very popular with tourists, who are warned of the incoming tide by a siren sounded some time before the area gets cut off. The Atlantic swells that sweep across the bay can be huge, but the most dangerous are the rogue swells that can appear in calm conditions and sweep over the area. Although the actual rock platform itself fishes well, anglers are probably safer fishing the ground located either side of the start of the slip, which is more easily accessible, and can be vacated quickly if conditions take a turn for the worse.
SPECIES
Conger and Huss are present in numbers over the rough ground, although very strong tackle is required to stand any chance of landing them. Bass and Pollack provide the main target species, and can be caught on a variety of lures. Specimen sized Wrasse can be taken from the gutters and gullies in the area when they become fishable in settled conditions.
BEST BAITS
Armed with a spinning rod, chest waders, and a box of lures, anglers can enjoy some tremendous sport for specimen Bass, with great success coming recently to anglers fishing surface and shallow diving varieties. Float fished live sand-eel is another option to try for both Bass and Pollack. Large fish baits will hook Conger, Dogfish, Huss, and one or two other species, but actually landing them can be quite difficult. Green shore crab is the best bait for the specimen Wrasse.
TACKLE
Standard plugging rods and fixed spool reels loaded with ten pound mono, or braid with a mono leader, are best for spinning and float fishing. Heavy beachcasters required for bottom fishing in the rough ground.
GETTING THERE
From St. Aubin, take the A13 Route Des Genets as far as Red Houses traffic lights, and then straight over into La Route Orange and follow the main road until the B83 La Rue De La Corbiere which leads all the way to the lighthouse. Plenty of parking space is available in the area, and once parked, take the path down to the mark.
EAST COAST
GOREY HARBOUR
Gorey harbour, located at the foot of the headland that is the site of the magnificent castle of Mont Orgeuil, has to be one of the most beautiful locations in the British Isles to wet a line.
The inner harbour is strewn with mooring ropes and as such is virtually impossible to fish, but the outer wall is very popular with local anglers. Because of the high levels of tourist activity in the area, most angling is done either at very first light, or in darkness. The rocky outcrop at the rear of the castle can be fished low water up for a number of species that come into the area to feed during quieter times. The rocks stretch around the coast in a northerly direction and are well known as a hot spot for plugging and spinning with metal lures for Bass. Although the waters here are not deep, good catches of Conger are regularly taken, with fish to thirty pounds always likely.
In the winter evenings the pier is very popular with anglers jigging for Squid under the lights, and specimens to over four pounds are often landed.
SPECIES
Bass, Conger, Mackerel, Rays, and Squid.
BEST BAITS
Flatfish are occasionally taken from the pier head on worm, with Rays also caught on a variety of fish baits. Bass can be caught from the rocks behind the castle, normally on spinning or plugging tackle.
Conger will take fish baits at night fishing low water up from the rocks to the left of the slipway.
Squid are present usually sometime between November and March, and are normally taken on jigs.
TACKLE
Standard beachcasting gear for fishing the pier head, but stronger tackle required for the conger from the rocks.
Light spinning rods for plugging and for fishing squid jigs.
GETTING THERE
From St. Helier take the A3 Gorey Coast road, following the shoreline past Grouville Bay until the castle comes into view. There is parking available at the pier and in the village which is operated on a pay and display basis.
GROUVILLE BAY
The Royal Bay of Grouville stretches from Gorey in the north to La Rocque Point to the south and because of its clean sandy beaches and sheltered aspect, is very popular with both tourists and locals for swimming and sunbathing. Most of the interest from an angling viewpoint centres on the reef formations around the Seymour Tower area where low tide uncovers a huge expanse of heads and gutters that teem with bait of all descriptions. The bay as a whole is recognised as a nursery area for Bass and one or two other species, and is one of the most popular low water venues for those searching out Lobster, Crab, Ormers, and sand-eel. This year has seen the enlargement of the shellfish industry in the bay to include artificial mussel beds that are easily recognisable with their lines of poles placed to provide home to these molluscs.
As with most shallow water marks in Jersey, the bay, and in particular, the Seymour Tower area, is subject to strong tidal flow during the ebb and flow, and because of this, anglers wishing to fish the reefs and gutters should be fully versed with the nature and direction of the flood tide. Sightseers have been trapped by gutters filling behind them as they return from walks out to the Tower, and in extreme cases, have had to be rescued from the Tower by the emergency services. Whilst these occurrences are regrettable, they should not prevent anyone from fishing what is a terrific area for Bass providing they do so with caution.
SPECIES
The bay is home to many immature fish of several species but from a rod angling aspect, Bass represent the best target with fish running from school sized fish of one to two pounds, up to fully grown adults into double figures.
BEST BAITS
The area is alive with natural bait such as crab, worm and sand-eel and any of these will work well when fishing the tide up. Plugging and spinning with shallow diving and surface lures is very successful among the beds of kelp and gutters.
TACKLE
A light Bass rod coupled with either a small multiplier or fixed spool reel should cope with any eventualities. A decent pair of chest waders is an essential to enable the angler to fish the area
safely. A decent pair of polarised sunglasses is an essential item for fish spotting through the surface glare.
GETTING THERE
From St. Helier, take the A3 along the east coast road, following the shoreline until Grouville Bay appears below Mont Orgeuil Castle. Car parking is available at various points along the bay, with some spots requiring a pay and display sticker. Public toilets and other facilities are to be found in the area.
ST CATHERINES
ST. CATHERINE’S BREAKWATER
One of the most famous shore marks in Jersey, the breakwater has produced specimen, and even British Record fish of several species, over the years. The vast length of the structure means that it can accommodate many anglers from both the front and back wall, but there are specific hot-spots to fish depending on the species targeted. The very end is naturally quite popular with locals who feather for the seasonal Mackerel shoals, but also produces some huge Undulate and Blonde Rays to ledgered fish baits. The slip at the start of the breakwater is renowned for its quality Bass fishing. Because of the strong tidal run that affects the mark, most fishing is done during the slack water periods that precede and follow high and low water.
The breakwater is very popular for night fishing, and over the years some memorable catches have been made.
SPECIES
The mark is home to many, many species throughout the season, with early spring seeing shoals of Mackerel and Garfish being caught in numbers from the end of the structure. Bream are the next to arrive and feed avidly for a couple of months after spawning. Pouting and Dogfish are ever present, as are several species of Ray including Blonde, Small-eyed, and Undulate (for which the mark holds the British record). There is also a seasonal run of Smoothhound, which provide excellent sport and can be landed to specimen size on a variety of baits. Bass of similar proportions are liable to turn up at any time and any state of the tide, but most fall to anglers baits at low water from the slipway at the start of the breakwater. Conger anglers generally target the rough ground at the back of the wall, from where Cod occasionally intercept baits meant for other species.
BAIT
Whole squid, Mackerel fillet, and small Pouting mounted on pulley rigs work well for Rays. Small green shore crab on float or ledgered close to the wall will take Wrasse to specimen size.
Worm baits of all types will take a variety of species, and Hermit crab is a local favourite for Smoothhounds and Bass.
TACKLE
Medium to heavy beachcasters are required to cast the heavy leads needed to place baits in the strong tide, and the mixed ground calls for sturdy rig construction. A large drop net is an absolute essential to land fish at any point on the wall.
GETTING THERE
From St. Helier travel east on La Grand Route de la Cote ( coast road), as far as Gorey and stay on the main road up on over the headland above the castle. As you follow the road the breakwater will be seen in the distance. Stay on the coast road until you come to a right hand turn to La Route de St. Catherine which will lead you to the car parking area at the start of the wall. Parking is on a pay and display basis, but there is a cafeteria on site, as well as public toilets.
TACKLE SHOPS
Halfway along the breakwater is the ‘Morning Watch’ tackle shop which carries fresh and frozen bait, and a limited supply of various tackle items. Rod and reel hire is available at a small cost.
BELVAL COVE
This mark forms part of St. Catherine’s Bay which is dominated by the massive structure of the breakwater further down the coast. The area is normally neglected in favour of its more famous neighbour, but the quality of fishing that it offers demands more respect from both locals and visiting anglers. Like much of this area of coastline, it is rock giving on to sand and shingle and as it is situated well away from the main tidal flow, it provides sanctuary for lots of immature bait fish, and has a very healthy stock of both worm and crab that can be easily gathered.
Bass are the prime target here, along with the much- prized Red Mullet at certain times of the year. If ever there was a mark suited to fishing at first light and from dusk into darkness, then this is it. Best tactic is to commence fishing at low water and then back up the beach with the tide, fishing various spots as you go. Fishing at high water from the slipway and the rocks to the left and right of the cove can also be productive, with larger Bass more likely on either fish baits or artificials.
SPECIES
Bass are the prime target species, although Red Mullet can be caught in September and November. Small Pollack can be a nuisance when fishing at night.
BEST BAITS
Worm baits such as white harbour rag and king rag work well for Bass and Red Mullet.
Larger fish baits such as Mackerel and sand-eel will produce fish at high water, when Squid is also worth a try.
TACKLE
Medium beachcasters, or Bass rods will cope with any of the fishing from this mark, coupled with two and three hook paternosters for worm baits, and simple running ledger for fish and squid baits.
GETTING THERE
From Gorey, take the B29 Route De La Cote up over the hill by the castle and stay on this road as it follows the shoreline past Anne Port and Archirondel. At the end of the bay there is a T junction at which you turn right toward St. Catherine’s on the B29. Carry on past the Martello Tower and small slipway on your right, and then climb uphill until you find a car park set into the cliff. Either park here, or by the small slipway which is across the road, and gives access to the mark.
Boat Fishing
Fishing - Charter Boats
Charter Boats
MV Theseus. Skipper, David Nuth.
Bookings on 01534 858046 or 07797 728 316
Brochures from tackle shop or on request.
MV Anna II. Skipper, Tony Heart.
Bookings on 01534 888552 or 07797 725 301
Website: www.anna2j405.com
Brochures from tackle shops or on request.
Riptide Charter's
MV Riptide
Bookings contact skipper Steve Bailey on 07797 721 888 or Jim O'Connor on 07797 777 843.
Email: riptide@jerseymail.co.uk.
Website: www.riptide-dive.com
PTGH wish to thank Jersey Tourism for their help in providing the above information.
19/01/2006
© 2006 Preston Travel Group Holdings Limited. All rights reserved.
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